The Contribution Of The Minerals And Mining Industry To Poverty Alleviation and Sustainable Development In Nigeria – A Legal Perspective

Abstract

Despite the huge deposits of mineral resources in Nigeria, the success of the Mineral and Mining industry in alleviating poverty has been relatively low.   There is high inequality which is reflected in a wide gap between the rich and the poor and poverty alleviation.  Environmental, social and economic activities encourage poverty in Nigeria. Poverty reduction strategies ignore the contribution of mining to poverty reduction.  Activities in the mining industry can cause damage to the environment and reduce economic growth if not carried out in an environmentally sound manner. The rule of standi is not given broad interpretation and this has hindered the activities of civil society organization in exposing violation of recognized norms in the mining industry. There is therefore a need to evaluate activities of the mining sector and how it contributes to the alleviation of poverty and the quest for sustainable development.   This paper highlights the place of mining industry in the alleviation of poverty and the attainment of sustainable development.  It articulates some of the challenges faced by the Nigerian mineral industry and reviews some practices for enhanced public participation in the environment, social and economic aspects of the mining circle.  A framework of improved policies, legal and policy mining operations were also discussed, with a view to offering solutions as to how the Nigerian Mineral and Mining Industry can contribute to achieve a better world for Nigerians.